Specialized AWOL (2014)

I just want a bike

Pros

- Cr-Mo frame and fork
- Avid mechanical disc brakes
- Good gear range

Cons

- Rugged bikes are never weight weenies

Review

"I just want a bike". Sometimes this cry can be heard even from a cycling nut. Bikes these days have become so specific for a unique task that the pressure to fill ones garage with a variety of steeds is almost overwhelming. Then you look around at the complex world you have created and long for the simplicity of days gone by. "I just want a bike to ride" is an expression of yearning for the joys of cycling, without any hype or "which bike is best for you" questions to be answered.

Specialized are not the first brand to respond to this simple need, and they also won't be the last. When I first saw the AWOL I thought "this is just a bike to go for a ride on". Perhaps that is also what Eric and Recep thought when they did the Transcontinental Race on the AWOL, which is a clear demonstration of the ability of "just a bike".

The AWOL benefits from a complete cr-mo frame and fork. It is designed to be equally good for touring, hard-core commuting and even off-road riding. Indeed, this bike is actually really good at all these disciplines. The versatility is surely represented by the use of wheels that can accommodate 700x42 (as equipped) right up to a chunky 2.2inch wide 29er tire.

The bike is also supplied with a Shimano Sora drivetrain with triple crank and again a mountain bike inspired 11-32t cassette; plenty of gear options for any surface or gradient. This is particularly important when you realize these bikes weigh over 14kg and will potentially bend the scales much, much further when fully setup with cargo.

The use of Avid BB7 mechanical disc brakes is a good choice for adventure cycling. They work very well and can be easily repaired if you come down in a remote area. The last thing you want is a hydraulic hose failure many miles from home!

The riding position isn't flat out like a road bike, but with drop bars you can certainly get into a tucked, out of the wind position and the more upright geometry is perfect for big days in the saddle, or just less aggressive riding than found in a competitive bunch. It is perfectly tuned for its purpose.

A lot of thought went into the the AWOL; ironically the result of all that thought is a simple "I just want a bike", bike. One machine that fulfills the wishes of adventurous cycling souls as well as a city dweller looking to simplify. The AWOL ticks boxes. Definitely worth checking out.